From the subtle poetry of Field Report to the shaggy pop-rock of Jaill to the intense electronic beats of Lorn, these three acts - which all had albums released by record labels this year - displayed to locals and outsiders alike the diversity of Milwaukee music. Geography and originality are practically all they had in common.

"Field Report," Jaill's "Traps," and Lorn's "Ask the Dust" all made my top 10 Milwaukee album list this year, as did several self-releases that rivaled, and in many cases surpassed, albums with major-label support. In a just world, all of these artists would have record deals, and perhaps some day, their big break will come. In the meantime, they're ours to treasure. | Dec. 19, 2012»Read Full Article

Can one argue that really great sex proves the existence of God? Can a play in which a woman verbally counts out her simulated, onstage orgasms still be described as wholesome and old-fashioned? Is actor Jeff Daniels' "Apartment 3A," the comedy triggering these questions, really funny?